Solo-Ish Ecuador

Dinner Party: Quito

Enjoy an included arrival transfer to the nearby start hotel in Quito where you will attend a welcome briefing with your newest travel companions. Then, head out on foot through the city streets to your hands-on cooking experience with the entire group. Listen to instructions from a talented local chef and enjoy stories throughout the lesson about the various ingredients and dishes you are working on creating. Witness the joy of sharing a meal prepared together and come away with new knowledge of Ecuador's culinary tastes and traditions.

Please ensure your arrival flights land prior to 3pm.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Arrival Transfer

Mariscal Sucre International Airport - Quito 0.75h - 1h 41km

You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

Meet Your CEO and Group

Evening

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Flavours of Ecuador Cooking Experience

Quito 2.5h

Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. Join your fellow Solo-ish travellers in an immersive cooking class led by an expert resident chef in Quito. Upon arrival to the class space there will be a brief explanation of what's to come and then the group will rotate between three different prep stations. Signature dishes made will depend on the ingredients available, but some options might include shrimp ceviche, tamales, soups, and incorporate fresh local fruits throughout. Learn about the local history and preparation of these delicious foods, and sit down for a family-style meal of your tasty creations. You'll leave with full stomachs and heads abuzz with new culinary knowledge to bring back home.

• Meals Included:
• Dinner
Accommodations:  Hotel Eugenia

We Day: Quito

Today is all about the landscapes and communities of Ecuador. Start the day with a city tour of Quito and walk past important sites like the golden Compania Church, San Francisco Square, and the Panecillo, a towering statue of the virgin of Quito. Then dive deeper into the meaning of community with an intriguing chocolate tasting experience through a locally-owned establishment that prioritizes the values of Minka, a tradition of collective labour that supports many social and infrastructure projects. Enjoy an included lunch afterwards featuring many traditional local dishes and continue to the Intinan museum to explore the scientific riches only found on our planet's equatorial line. Enjoy a free evening back in Quito.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Quito City Tour

Quito

Take a tour of Quito to learn more about this beautiful city and its local culture. Visit the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stops at the golden Compania Church, San Francisco Square, and the Panecillo, a towering statue of the virgin of Quito who looks out over a stunning view of the city.

Minca Community Chocolate Tasting

Quito

With your incredible CEO at the helm, get to know the local community and your Solo-ish travel mates on a day packed full of interesting and engaging adventures. After your Quito city tour, the group will dive into the community concept of Minca at a family-operated gourmet chocolate establishment working to benefit locals with social and infrastructure initiatives. The chocolate here is among the richest and most flavourful in the world. The group will gain an understanding of the manufacturing process and taste cacao as it goes through various stages to reach the chocolate most are familiar with. Learn the history of Ecuadoran chocolate and how it is steeped in tradition. Minka focuses on honest and committed work allowing you to witness the community spirit that embodies this very enchanting region.

Private Vehicle

Quito 2h

Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Quito and the Intinan Museum. It will take about an hour each way.

Intiñan Museum Visit

Provincia de Pichincha 1.25h - 1.5h

Visit the Intinan Museum (Intinan Site meaning 'Pathway of the Sun') with interactive exhibits displaying the science and myths behind the equatorial line. You will have the opportunity to interact with phenomena that occur in nature which can be tested on the magnetic equatorial line. The centre also has displays highlighting the local indigenous cultures. There is also a chance to set foot on both sides of the Equator, for which the country of Ecuador is named.

Free Time

Quito Evening

Spend a free evening in Quito. Find a local spot to grab dinner on your own, or choose to relax and unwind at the hotel.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodations:  Hotel Eugenia

G Day: Cotopaxi & Banos

Prepare to experience what G Adventures does best and enjoy an epic adventurous day in Cotopaxi National Park. Depart from Quito in the morning and enjoy a day immersed in the wilds of this high Andean ecosystem. Highlights include a visit to Limpiopungo Lake featuring picturesque views of the Cotopaxi volcano. If weather allows, travellers can hike up to an old military fortress built on a 4800m high hilltop, which offers 360-degree views to get closer to the volcano, or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the lagoon. From here travel to Banos for an orientation walk through the abundantly green surroundings.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Quito - Cotopaxi National Park 1.75h - 2h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

The Wild Landscapes of Cotopaxi & Baños

Cotopaxi National Park - Banos

With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the world's coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences to take your day to an 11. Prepare to fall in love with the untamed landscape of Cotopaxi National Park and, if weather allows, enjoy a clear reflection of the volcano from Limpiopungo Lagoon. Travellers feeling extra adventurous can hike to the refuge at 4800m. Then it's time to jet off to the sights and sounds of Banos' subtropical highland climate at the base of the Tungurahua volcano.

Private Vehicle

Cotopaxi National Park - Banos 2.5h - 2.75h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. There will be a stop along the way for travellers to enjoy an included lunch between Cotopaxi National Park and Banos.

Baños Orientation Walk

Banos 1.5h

Enjoy an orientation walk in Banos with your CEO. Banos is a city in Ecuador's Tungurahua province, considered the gateway to the Amazon Basin and known for its hiking trails, hot springs, and active volcano to the south. Walk about the city, pass by The Church of Our Lady of Holy Water, and get the lay of the land.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodations:  Xperience Hotel

Me Day: Banos

It's time for a day that belongs to you! The choice really is all yours. From spending the day doing an array of optional activities available like hiking to the Pailon del Diablo or soaking in the local hot springs. You'll also have the option of joining your CEO for a visit to the famous Casa del Arbol perched on a hilltop overlooking epic views of the Tungurahua volcano on a clear day. Dinner will be on your own this evening amid the lush scenery of Banos.

Pre-book the Banos Canyoning Adventure to enjoy the stunning scenery in Sangay National Park.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Baños Me Day

Banos

Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for a local activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
Accommodations:  Xperience Hotel
7
Optional Activities for Day 4
Show
Hot Springs - Banos
4USD Per Person
Banos
Soak weary muscles in the thermal baths that Banos is famous for. Head to hot springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano, which means "little hell" in Quichua, or try some of the baths fed by the melt waters of Tungurahua's glaciated flanks. Rise before the sun for an early soak - watching the sun peak over the mountains while relaxing in the warm waters is definitely worth the early start.
Horseback Riding - Banos
25USD Per Person
Banos
Hop in the saddle and explore Banos' beautiful countryside by horseback. Check out the unique vegetation in the region, and, perhaps, trot over to Tungurahua Volcano for amazing views.
Hiking - Banos
Banos
Head to the mountains for some amazing treks; Banos provides the perfect natural setting for outdoor adventure.
Banos Canyoning Adventure
Banos
Jump, slide, rappel, swim and float around Cascadas de Chamana on this canyoning adventure, while enjoying the stunning scenery near Sangay National Park. Please keep in mind this is a level 4/5 physical activity. Good mobility and a strong fitness level are required for you to have an enjoyable experience.
Visit Casa del Arbol
Banos
Perched on a hilltop behind Banos is La Casa del Arbol, sporting epic views of the Tungurahua volcano on a clear day. It was used previously to monitor the volcano's activity, but now has become a popular attraction because of the iconic image of a swing attached to the treehouse. Visit the viewpoint where you can choose to try whooshing over the abyss for yourself to feel the thrill of swinging on the edge of the world.
Pailon del Diablo Waterfall Visit
Banos
El Pailon del Diablo is located about 30 minutes outside of Banos. The Spanish name translates to "The Devil's Cauldron" in English. These powerful falls are 80m high and pull their strength from Rio Verde. The group will take a short walk to the falls before returning to the van. Total distance: 2km (1.3 miles) Total elevation: 148m (485ft)
Whitewater Rafting
35USD Per Person
Banos
Hit the rapids in the adrenaline capital of Ecuador. Choose a river that suits your experience level; there a number with varying ranges of difficulty. Enjoy amazing Andean scenery and a fun-filled ride!
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Banos/Tena

Travel away from the misty green foliage of Banos to the lush Amazon Jungle and your community lodge stay in the rainforest. Here, you'll enjoy the hospitality of the local indigenous people of Shandia and experience life in the jungle firsthand. Once you arrive the group will cycle through the community and discover the beauty of the area with a local member as your guide. Your lodge stay is operated by the people of Shandia, who are committed to providing guests with a sustainable and authentic experience. After a delicious lunch and bike ride, the group will embark on a village walk and tour the cacao plantation here. Learn more about the cultivation process and take part in a hands-on chocolate-making experience. This is followed by an included dinner at the lodge.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Banos - Shandia 3h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Shandia Biking & Community Experience

Shandia 2.5h - 3h 6km

Cycle to the Indigenous Shandia community, a rural village surrounded by rivers and lush Amazonian landscapes. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive experiences led by the village's youth. Spend an hour and 45 minutes cycling from Pimpilala village to Shandia stopping along the way to take in the beauty of the Amazon. These cultural tours are seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. This provides an economic opportunity for youth who traditionally would have left the community to find work. Your time spent here is creating opportunities for a new generation in the community and contributing to the preservation of their culture.

Cacao Plantation Visit & Chocolate Making

Shandia 2h

Enjoy a walk through the community Shandia and a visit to the cacao plantation here further connecting travellers to the local indigenous people and surrounding nature.

Shandia Community Lodge

Shandia

Stay overnight at the Shandia Indigenous lodge located in the Ecuadorian Amazon. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive tours led by the village's youth. The community lodge is seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. Learn about their cultivation of cacao and traditional agriculture practices. Meals of local ingredients grown in the village are prepared by women who were provided with culinary training through the project. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a whole new generation of people in this community to improve their lives, and the lives of their children and grandchildren.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
Accommodations:  Shandia Lodge

Tena

Today, the group will travel to the Pimpilala Waterfalls for an exciting waterfalls adventure activity. After the waterfalls experience, visit a chacra (traditional farm), where they will learn about local agricultural practices and participate in a chicha-making experience. Chicha is a traditional fermented beverage widely consumed across the Amazon Basin and holds important cultural significance. Finish the day with a group dinner and celebrate your final night in the mighty Amazon.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Pimpilala Waterfalls Visit

Tena 3h

Make your way to the stunning Pimpilala Waterfalls, where cascading waters spill into a serene natural pool below. Take in the lush surroundings before enjoying the chance to cool off with a refreshing swim beneath the falls. Return to the lodge just in time for an included lunch.

Chachra Visit & Chicha Tasting

Shandia

Visit a traditional farm, known as a Chachra. While here you'll learn about the fermented drink known as chicha. This beverage is an important social drink throughout the Amazon Basin and is consumed in many parts of South America. It's often served at festivals or parties, and is also used in religious ceremonies. Try a taste after your walk through the area.

Shandia Community Lodge

Shandia

Stay overnight at the Shandia Indigenous lodge located in the Ecuadorian Amazon. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive tours led by the village's youth. The community lodge is seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. Watch a chocolate making demonstration and learn about their cultivation of cacao and their traditional agriculture practices. Meals of local ingredients grown in the village are prepared by women who were provided with culinary training through the project. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a whole new generation of people in this community to improve their lives, and the lives of their children and grandchildren.

Free Time

Tena

Take advantage of free time this afternoon to relax in the jungle or choose to try some of the other community activities available through the lodge. Choose to walk to the nearby beach area along the river for local culture displaces like, the Yachak Ritual.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
Accommodations:  Shandia Lodge

Tena/Quito

Enjoy one final breakfast at the Amazon lodge before transferring to Papallacta. Here, take some time to relax in the natural mineral hot pools with volcanic views before travelling back to Quito. The tour ends upon arrival at the airport. Please book onward travel from 8pm onwards.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Tena - Papallacta 3.5h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Papallacta Hot Springs Visit

Papallacta 1h

Soak in the natural hot springs the area is known for and let the mineral waters, which vary in temperature, soothe your body. Make your way through the circuit with views of the Antisana volcano in the distance.

Private Vehicle

Papallacta - Mariscal Sucre International Airport 1h 55km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast